Related Media

TAHOE/TRUCKEE, Calif. — Cadet 2nd Lt. Jonathon Friesen of the Tahoe Truckee Composite Squadron of the Civil Air Patrol was recently recognized for receiving the General Billy Mitchell Award.

This promotion brings opportunities for further leadership challenges and greater responsibility in the cadet program.

Col. Ralph Miller from the Nevada Wing Civil Air Patrol was on hand to present Cadet 2nd. Lt. Friesen the award.

The award is the second in a series of milestone achievements in the cadet program and is named after the late Air Force Brig. Gen. Billy Mitchell.

Its achievement denotes excellence in the cadet program and is accomplished through practical study and application of leadership fundamentals and aerospace education.

This achievement also has benefits outside of CAP. Those interested in entering military service via college ROTC are afforded advanced credit in that program. Cadets enlisting into military service are awarded the grade of E-3 (versus E-1).

The support of family is essential in the CAP Cadet Program and a major reason for the success of cadets as they make choices about future careers. Cadet 2nd Lt. Friesen had his parents, grandparents and friends were on hand for this milestone award.

The Civil Air Patrol, an auxiliary of the United States Air Force, has three missions: Emergency services (search and rescue), cadet programs and aerospace education.

The CAP Cadet Program is organized around five elements: Leadership, aerospace education, fitness, character and community service activities. The program strives to instill in the cadets, ages 12 to 21, the core values of integrity, volunteer service, excellence and respect. Through the guidance and influence of its volunteer senior members, the CAP cadet program aims to foster the development of responsible citizens who are inspired to become tomorrow's leaders.